Latest news with #InternationalBuddhistConfederation
News18
22-07-2025
- General
- News18
Ashokan Pillar replica erected on premises of Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka
Last Updated: New Delhi, Jul 22 (PTI) A replica of the ancient Ashokan Pillar has been erected on the premises of a Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka in recognition of the 'great service" of Emperor Ashoka to the island nation. Indian High Commissioner Santosh Jha in his address said this initiative has 'further strengthened" the cultural and spiritual ties between India and Sri Lanka. The replica, symbolising the one of the iconic stone-made pillars which were erected across the Indian subcontinent by Emperor Ashoka to perpetuate the ancient wisdom of Buddhism, was unveiled on the sacred premises of Waskaduwa Sri Subhuthi Viharaya on July 21, the Indian culture ministry said on Tuesday. The Buddhist temple is situated in the city of Waskaduwa in Kalutara district, a southern province of Sri Lanka about 42 km south of Colombo, the ministry said. The event took place with the participation of chief incumbent of the Waskaduwa Sri Subhuthi Viharaya, Waskaduwe Mahindawansa Mahanayaka Thero, Jha as the chief guest, and Deputy Secretary General of International Buddhist Confederation Damenda Porage, among other dignitaries. Mahanayaka Thero said the replica of the pillar has been made in 'recognition of the great service of Emperor Ashoka to Sri Lanka". The complete sponsorship for this replica pillar was provided by Kyabje Ling Rinpoche, one of the Tibetan Buddhism's foremost spiritual leaders, denotes the lineage of Tibetan Buddhist masters, particularly the 6th and 7th incarnations, the ministry said in its statement. The 6th Kyabje Yongzin Ling Rinpoche (1903-1983) was a highly revered figure, serving as the 97th Ganden Throne Holder (Gaden Tripa) and the senior tutor to the 14th Dalai Lama, it said. The current, 7th incarnation, born in 1985, is also a prominent figure, at Drepung Loseling Monastic University, Karnataka. He is the spiritual head of Ling Khangtsen and has travelled extensively to teach and guide students, the statement said. The foundation stone for the replica was laid over a year ago, on January 28 in 2024 by Jha and International Buddhist Confederation secretary general Shartse Khensur Jangchup Choeden Rinpoche. 'This initiative has further strengthened" the cultural and spiritual ties between India and Sri Lanka, Jha said. 'In order to further deepen this heritage, the government of India announced a special grant assistance of USD 15 million in September 2020 to promote Buddhist ties between our two countries. One significant initiative under this grant is the on-going project to provide free solar electrification for nearly 10,000 Buddhist temples and Pirivenas (monastic colleges) across Sri Lanka," he was quoted as saying. Mahanayaka Thero retraced the historical importance of the temple, saying it was due to the noble efforts of Emperor Ashoka that 'Sri Lankans received such a wonderful spiritual path, like Buddhism." 'Emperor Ashoka gifted both his son and daughter to the Buddha Sasana. Both Arhat Mahinda Thero and Arhat Sangamitta Therani were instrumental in introducing and establishing Buddha Sasana in Sri Lanka. Although the contribution of Emperor Ashoka in building the Sri Lankan Buddhist civilisation is monumental, it is hardly recognised," he said. 'In fact, we wanted to fill that void by expressing our gratitude to that great Emperor in some way. After discussing with Maha Sangha, they suggested that a replica of the Ashokan Pillar be erected at our temple premises. In one-and-a-half year time, we could complete the construction of the pillar," he said. Regarding the selection of Waskaduwa Sri Subhuthi Viharaya site to erect the replica in Sri Lanka, Damenda Porage said the temple is highly significant, because it is where the 'authentic and sacred Kapilavastu relics of the Buddha is housed". 'Waskaduwa Sri Subhuthi Viharaya houses the holy and authentic relics of the Buddha. Moreover, Maha Nayaka Waskaduwe Mahindawansa Thero is ever grateful to India for their support to Sri Lanka throughout millennia. The Thero often reminds them with utmost gratitude and often cherishes the ties between the two countries. It is Maha Nayaka Thero who often wanted to show gratitude to India for her great support to our country," Porage was quoted as saying. PTI KND ZMN view comments First Published: July 22, 2025, 21:30 IST News agency-feeds Ashokan Pillar replica erected on premises of Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Time of India
17-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
New Delhi hosts mega meet to celebrate Dalai Lama's birthday
The International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) in commemoration of the 90th birth anniversary of His Holiness 14th Dalai Lama , conducted a daylong celebration on the 13th of July at New Delhi. Shartse Khensur Jangchup Choeden Rinpoche, SecretaryGeneral of IBC began the glorious celebration by welcoming His Holiness 43rd Sakya Rinpoche, His Holiness 105th Gaden Tripa, Most Ven. Arayawangso, Most Ven. Waskaduwe Mahindawansa Mahanayake Thero, Most Venerable Samdhong Rinpoche and Ven. Bhikkhu Kaboggoza Buddhrakkhita. Explore courses from Top Institutes in Select a Course Category Healthcare CXO Artificial Intelligence Design Thinking Management Data Science Project Management Digital Marketing MCA Finance Degree Product Management Leadership Public Policy Data Analytics Others Operations Management PGDM Cybersecurity healthcare Data Science MBA others Skills you'll gain: Financial Analysis in Healthcare Financial Management & Investing Strategic Management in Healthcare Process Design & Analysis Duration: 12 Weeks Indian School of Business Certificate Program in Healthcare Management Starts on Jun 13, 2024 Get Details The Secretary General emphasized that this occasion aimed to reflect on the joy that His Holiness brings into our lives, the wisdom he shares, and the unique spirit that makes him so undeniably holy, kind, inspiring, and dependable. He stated how dedicated His Holiness is towards common causes like world peace, universal responsibility, environmental protection and the oneness of the entire humanity. His Holiness is looked upon for embracing change while remaining dedicated to ancient wisdom and values. He said, His Holiness often says, 'I am son of India as far as my body is concerned, as it has survived on Indian dal and roti for more than 60 years, and as for my mind, it is fully influenced by thoughts of thinkers like Nagarjuna and other Nalanda masters'. In His Holiness' words, the relationship between Indians and Tibetans is like Guru and Chela (teacher-disciple relation). The Secretary General expressed his indebtedness towards His Holiness for his generosity towards the IBC since its inception and how His Holiness was a mentor throughout. As part of the celebrations, there was screening of film on 'Celebrating the Legacy of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama'. The occasion was blessed when the special message from His Holiness 14th Dalai Lama was read out by our Guest of Honour Most Venerable Samdhong Rinpoche. Notable lines from his letter expressed how Tibetans refer to India as 'Arya Bhumi'. He mentioned how he feels a 'special closeness to India'. He believes that if aspects of India's ancient wisdom, of which the Buddha's teachings are a part, are combined with modern education, they can make a beneficial contribution to greater peace and happiness in the world. He further said that the Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies (CIHTS) at Sarnath, Varanasi, which was founded in 1967 with the Government of India's assistance, facilitated scholars from the Himalayan Region and Tibetans to be part of major projects torestore several texts that have been preserved in their Tibetan translation. He said, at present, there is growing interest in Buddhism among Chinese people, including those from mainland China, which is part of their cultural inheritance. His Holiness also expressed his gratitude to the Government and people of India for the warm hospitality shown towards them since 1959 and for the generous support to protect and preserve the Buddhist culture that is founded on India's age-old values of karuna and ahimsa. Moreover, scientists around the world are interested in knowing more about Buddhist philosophy and the Buddhist explanation of the interlinkages between the mind and emotions. Respect from other parts of the world was represented in the form of messages from countries such as Russia, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, South Korea, Laos, Japan, Myanmar and Mongolia, and were handed over to the Most Venerable Samdhong Rinpoche. Senior member of Thailand's Supreme Sangha council Most Ven. Arayawangso talked about the 'Triple Gem' that includes the virtues of Buddha, Dhamma and Sangha is to be seen as a power to protect the Tibetan people. He also highlighted how the foundation of a great civilization is rooted in recognizing the good and the evil with wisdom. Furthermore, Most Venerable Samdhong Rimpochereiterated how His Holiness compiled teachings of Buddha in a suitable medium which is understandable in the post-modern civilization of the 21st century. His Holiness is known as the fearless teacher of the 21st century. He reiterated that we should do our best to materialize objectives of His Holiness 14th Dalai Lama. Violence is one of the horrendous challenges faced by humanity. He talked about how the negative emotions of people can be tackled through compassion. Here he quoted Mahatma Gandhi by stating 'hate the sin, not the sinner'. He further stated how Ethics or moral conduct is necessary for believers and non-believers equally. He drew parallels between Gandhi's Sarva Dharma Sambhava and the teachings of His Holiness, that there should be a feeling of equality of all religious traditions and non-religious people's mindset. If equilibrium is not there, then it may be hard to preach His Holiness' message. The Head of the Sakya order of Tibetan Buddhism and our keynote speaker Most Venerable Sakya Trizin, delved into the realms which we are most cognizant, that is, the outer activities of His Holiness, which have shaped our contemporary understanding of compassion. He reflected on the four commitments which has defined His Holiness's life and continue to guide his tireless service to humanity. First commitment being promoting basic human values which touched countless lives transcending boundaries of religion, cultures, and nationality. His holiness identified himself as one among the 8 billion people. Buddhist values of compassion, forgiveness, tolerance and contentment are universal which is essential for happiness and peace. His Holiness' voice is unifying in a world of differences, as he always says 'My religion is kindness'. His second commitment is to foster harmony among the world's religious traditions and to recognize wisdom in all spiritual paths. He emphasized on how different religions can learn from one another while maintaining their unique identity. His Holiness' non-sectarian approach demonstrates true spirit of Buddha's teachings. The Third commitment involves preserving Tibetan Buddhism culture & identity. Through His Holiness' visionary efforts, Tibetan Buddhism found new soil to grow, primarily in India and preserving it has gone beyond mere survival. It has contributed in its ways to the world's civilization. Profound philosophical insights, meditation practice and compassionate world view of Tibet enriched the spiritual landscape of humanity as a whole. His fourth commitment is promoting ancient wisdom of India; the Nalanda tradition is seen as a gift to the eastern and western intellectual traditions. His Holiness constantly emphasizes how Buddhism was born in India and the comprehensive system of Buddhist philosophy with regard to logic, meditation that developed thereafter is humanity's greatest intellectual achievements. The world has come to recognize that ancient Indian wisdom incorporates not only Buddhist philosophy. It also involves advanced traditions incorporating logic, epistemology, psychology and contemplative science. It offers invaluable insight for facing challenges of the contemporary world. Scholars have demonstrated how these ancient traditions can enrich contemporary understanding of our consciousness. His Holiness showed us that ancient wisdom is not merely a historical interest, but contains practical methods for cultivating inner peace and understanding the nature of reality. The four prominent commitments of His Holiness realize thebodhisattva ideals.
Time of India
14-07-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
We Tibetans deeply indebted to India for warm hospitality: Dalai Lama
File photo: Dalai Lama NEW DELHI: In a special message read out at a day-long conference organised here to mark his 90th birthday, the Dalai Lama said "we Tibet ans" are deeply indebted to the govt and people of India for the warm hospitality they have shown since 1959, even as he indirectly questioned China's claim over Tibet. The Tibetan spiritual leader recalled how it had been more than 66 years since a large number of Tibetans, including him, fled to India following the "Chinese Communist invasion of Tibet". Referring to India as "Arya Bhumi" in his written message read out at the conference by his confidant and noted scholar Samdhong Rinpoche, the Dalai Lama said that "here (India) I have enjoyed the freedom and opportunity to continue my studies of ancient Indian wisdom". He felt a "special closeness" to India, which, over and above being the world's most populous country and the largest democracy, is the land of the Buddha, the place where he attained enlightenment, he added. Reflecting on the profound impact the 14th Dalai Lama has had on the world, a declaration adopted at the conference organised by International Buddhist Confederation and attended by nearly 500 participants, including renowned Buddhist monks and scholars, hailed him for having consistently championed the preservation of the rich Tibetan culture and religious freedom. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like American Investor Warren Buffett Recommends: 5 Books For Turning Your Life Around Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo "His (Dalai Lama) recent statement announcing the continuation of his reincarnation, and only by Tibetan people without any foreign interference is a testament of preserving its culture and heritage," the declaration stated. "His wisdom in safeguarding the sacred institution of the Dalai Lama - particularly his clear and courageous stance on its future - stands as a beacon of spiritual integrity in the modern world," it said. In his message, the Dalai Lama added, "I believe that if aspects of India's ancient wisdom, of which the Buddha's teachings are a part, are combined with modern education they can make a beneficial contribution to greater peace and happiness in the world". Recalling that soon after "we Tibetans" came to India, the Dalai Lama said the Indian govt actively supported establishment of schools for Tibetan children to receive modern education while also learning about Tibetan culture and traditions.
India Gazette
13-07-2025
- General
- India Gazette
Scholars, researchers unite to discuss relevance of Buddha Dharma in 21st century
Dharamshala (Himachal Pradesh) [India], July 14 (ANI): Buddhist scholars, researchers, practitioners, and eminent spiritual leaders who had closely interacted with the 14th Dalai Lama, over several years, including the supreme hierarchy of international and national Buddhist Monks on Sunday discussed three pertinent subjects that 14th Dalai Lama had been concerned with these past years at an International Conference organised by the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) in commemoration of the 90th birth anniversary of the 14th Dalai Lama. The topics were 'Relevance of Buddha Dharma in the 21st Century', 'Quantum Physics, Neurosciences and Buddhism and on the 'Future of Tibetan Buddhism and the Preservation of its Culture.' Alexander Berzin from Harvard University in Far Eastern Languages, Sanskrit and Indian Studies said the 14th Dalai Lama considered three themes most relevant for the 21st century- the oneness of humanity, bodhichitta and the view of emptiness being the main focuses of his daily practice, and his great commitments. These are, firstly, promoting secular ethics and universal values and introducing their teaching into the modern school systems. Second is the preservation of Tibetan culture, language and environment. Promoting religious harmony is the third, and the fourth is the integration of the ancient Indian teachings on the mind into the curricula of the schools in India. Lobsang Tenzin Negi, the Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Centre for Contemplative Science and Compassion-Based Ethics at Emory University, explored the continued relevance of the Dalai Lama's core spiritual teachings, particularly compassion, mindfulness, and ethical responsibility, especially relevant in today's complex and fast-changing world. He noted that the Dalai Lama had been a pioneering force in bridging science and spirituality, actively engaging with world-renowned scientists and help giving rise to the field of contemplative science, especially the study of compassion. 'His vision and calls to action have directly inspired impactful global programs like SEE Learning and CBCT, which integrate secular ethics and emotional well-being into education and society. Together, these contributions offer a timeless and practical framework, and vital tools, for cultivating empathy, resilience, and a sense of universal responsibility in the 21st century,' explained. Professor Ceon Ramon, Affiliate Professor, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Washington, US, speaking on Quantum Physics, Neurosciences and Buddhism, explained these concepts with examples with the aim to demonstrate the similarities and differences between scientific theories and Buddhist philosophy. Another area of interaction is the combination of quantum and superluminal (faster than light) physics with Buddhist philosophy. He said that with this, one can explain the Buddhist concept of the luminous nature of the mind, which helps to describe the spontaneous transfer of information between two events that are separated in space. Associate Professor Edi Ramawijaya Putra, Sriwijaya State Buddhist College of Tangerang Banten, Indonesia, said the Dalai Lama was concerned about the lack of individual responsibility toward social and global welfare. This deliberately violates the ultimate goal of education itself. Therefore, learners must accentuate themselves that their presence in this world is not merely about individual purpose, but also for the benfits of other being, he explained. Educational stakeholders, including policy-makers worldwide, must start reimagining the curricula that provide more on 'educating the heart' not only 'education the mind'. More importantly, designing outcomes that equips learners' resilience as an equalizer of life through the voltailities, uncertainities, complexities and biases, Prof. Putra mentioned. Kate Saunders, Co-Founder of Turquoise Roof research network and Tibet Watch, London, UK, said Tibetan Buddhism was standing at a critical crossroads, the future will determine not only the preservation of Tibet's ancient spiritual traditions but also the continuity of its cultural identity under unprecedented Chinese control strategies. This presentation examined how China's systematic campaign to eliminate the Dalai Lama's influence extended far beyond Tibet's borders, employing what Beijing characterises as a 'protracted war' to control religious succession while simultaneously promoting 'unyielding Marxist atheism.' The analysis was based on new research revealing the international dimensions of China's reincarnation politics, demonstrating how Beijing's multi-dimensional approach threatens traditional Tibetan governance structures that uniquely interweave religious and political authority based on the belief that leaders are enlightened beings who choose reincarnation to serve humanity. 'At this pivotal moment of global instability, the preservation of Tibetan Buddhism represents more than cultural survival; it embodies a vital force offering practical guidance on compassionate education systems, ethical leadership, and sustainable resilience, providing alternative frameworks that humanity desperately needs to navigate an increasingly fractured world order where pluralism faces systematic assault from transnational authoritarian networks,' she concluded. A special message to IBC by Dalai Lama was read out by Most Venerable Prof. Samdhong Rinpoche, the Guest of Honour at the event. At the event, the Special Guest was Most Ven. Phrarat Vajarasuttiwong Dhammalongkornvibhusit Arayawangso, of Thailand, the Keynote Speaker was Dalai Lama, the 43rd Sakya Trizin Gyana Vajra Rinpoche of Dehradun, India, and the concluding remarks were by Most Ven. Nicholas Vreeland of the USA. In a declaration at the end of a day-long conference in New Delhi on three pertinent subjects close to Dalai Lama's heart: The 'Relevance of Buddha Dharma in the 21st Century', the 'Future of Tibetan Buddhism and the Preservation of its Culture,' and 'Quantum Physics, Neurosciences and Buddhism,' more than 500 participants, both nationals and from around the world unanimously supported the public statement. The key message read that 'from the highlands of Tibet to the farthest corners of the world, the Dalai Lama's teachings had transcended borders and beliefs. Inspiring millions to walk the path of non-violence, harmony, and inner awakening as the revered manifestation of Avalokiteshvara, the bodhisattva of compassion, the Dalai Lama has upheld and revitalised the precious traditions of Tibetan Buddhism, while also emerging as a global voice of conscience in contemporary times. It further stated that the Dalai Lama 'has consistently championed the preservation of rich Tibetan culture and religious freedom, guiding his people with unwavering resolve.' His recent statement announcing the continuation of his reincarnation, and only by Tibetan people without any foreign interference, is a testament to preserving its culture and heritage, as mentioned in the Declaration. (ANI)
Indian Express
13-07-2025
- Politics
- Indian Express
Accepting shared humanity key to peaceful resolution of most conflicts: Dalai Lama
Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama said sufferings caused by war sadden him, and asked people to see even their 'so-called enemies' as human beings, as such compassion can peacefully resolve even the most intractable conflicts. The 14th Dalai Lama, who turned 90 on July 6, said this in a written message which was read out by a venerable monk from Dharamshala, at a commemorative event held in Delhi on Sunday. At the event, concerns were raised over 'China's efforts to appropriate Indian and Tibetan Buddhism', with a message from the Dalai Lama, recalling how India welcomed them 66 years ago when they fled 'following the Chinese communist invasion of Tibet'. In his special message to the International Buddhist Confederation on Sunday, the Dalai Lama said '…with the active encouragement and support of the Government of India, schools were set up for our children to receive modern education, while also learning about Tibetan culture and traditions'. He referred to India as 'Arya bhumi'. The International Buddhist Organisation organised the seminar that was attended by scholars and monks from several countries including the US, Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and Nepal. Three panel discussions — 'The Spiritual Teachings of His Holiness the Dalai Lama: Relevance in the 21st Century'; 'Quantum Physics, Neuroscience and Buddhism'; and 'The Future of Tibetan Buddhism and the Preservation of Culture' — were held at the event. –With PTI Divya A reports on travel, tourism, culture and social issues - not necessarily in that order - for The Indian Express. She's been a journalist for over a decade now, working with Khaleej Times and The Times of India, before settling down at Express. Besides writing/ editing news reports, she indulges her pen to write short stories. As Sanskriti Prabha Dutt Fellow for Excellence in Journalism, she is researching on the lives of the children of sex workers in India. ... Read More
